In a resolute move to combat the widespread menace of illicit drugs, the Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) took center stage in Lagos as they annihilated a staggering 96 containers filled with prohibited, fake, and expired pharmaceuticals valued at over N12.89 billion. This critical operation, meticulously monitored by the National Agency for Food Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Directorate of State Service (DSS), and the Nigeria Army, marked a significant blow against the illicit drug trade.
The destroyed drugs encompassed a range of notorious substances, including Tramadol tablets, Codeine cough syrup, Diclofenac tablets and injections, Pramo sex enhancers, Yagra tablets, Black cobra tablets, Sildenafil citrate tablets, Chakapain extra tablets, Mebendazole tablets, and more. These nefarious substances, some of which were expired or failed to meet the statutory import guidelines, have wreaked havoc on countless lives, engendering a surge in crime and societal decay.
Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Adonye Dappa-Williams, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We welcome you to bear witness to the obliteration of 96 seized containers holding illicit, prohibited, and expired pharmaceutical products, including Codeine cough syrup, Diclofenac tablets and injections, Pramo sex enhancers, Yagra tablets, Black cobra tablets, Sildenafil citrate tablets, Chakapain extra tablets, and Mebendazole tablets. Additional items such as Royal chest lung tablets, Dr. Ibramol tablets, Omeprazole capsules, Cotrimaxazole tablets, Diavita loperamide capsules, Diarrhea stop, and Chlorphanamene malfate capsules that failed to meet import guidelines will also meet their demise today. The total duty paid value of these condemned items amounts to a staggering N12.9 billion.”
The destruction serves as a resounding message to deter the importation and consumption of banned substances, with particular focus on the notorious Tramadol and Codeine Syrup. Dappa-Williams took the opportunity to express gratitude for the unwavering collaboration and synergy between sister agencies in achieving this monumental feat.
Jemila Ashiru, the Investigation and Enforcement Directorate Officer of NAFDAC, emphasized the significance of the Customs-NAFDAC collaboration in intercepting these banned drugs. Ashiru revealed that the destroyed drugs ranged from controlled substances to counterfeits and expired pharmaceuticals. She stressed the catastrophic impact these unregistered and uncontrolled drugs could have had on the market, highlighting the vital role of this joint effort.
Echoing the sentiment, Assistant Commander of Narcotics at NDLEA, Ogbudu Thomas, emphasized the grave repercussions of drug abuse on society. He underscored the destructive nature of narcotics and psychotropic substances, not only to the users but also to the fabric of the nation. Thomas shed light on the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) program, aimed at rallying all stakeholders to combat drug abuse and raise awareness about its dangers.
The customs destruction of these illicit drugs marks a significant milestone in the relentless battle against the drug trade, signaling a united front in safeguarding lives, curbing crime, and protecting the well-being of the nation.
